50th Anniversary Alumni Celebration and Gala Dinner
On Saturday 19 March 2016, more than 250 University of Bradford alumni from all five decades returned to campus to see old friends and see what's changed - and what's stayed the same!
Following on from the Installation of the Chancellor and the Global Achievement Awards held in February, the Alumni Celebration is one of the University’s key anniversary events taking place in 2016.
During the day alumni were able to choose from a range of activities including campus tours, lectures and workshops led by staff and students. The tours offered alumni the chance to explore the developments made since their graduation, including the outstanding BREEAM re:centre, award winning student accommodation The Green, and our green spaces which recently received the prestigious Green Flag Award.
World-renowned Peace Studies Professor Paul Rogers delivered a lecture on ISIS, and Dr Chris Gaffney gave a presentation on the hidden landscapes of Stonehenge.
There was also an exhibition of ‘50 Years in Objects’, a hands-on LinkedIn workshop, and an opportunity to try some Archery with our student-led Archery Society. A fundraising raffle helped raise almost £300 with all proceeds going the University’s 50th Anniversary Scholarship Appeal.
Gala Dinner
In the evening, alumni and guests gathered in the Great Hall and Atrium for a 50th drinks and networking session before the Gala Dinner. Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Cantor addressed guests on the success of the University and his exciting vision for the future of the University as a world-leading technology university.
Guest speaker and alumnus Alan Keir, CEO of HSBC, talked to guests about his time at Bradford and how his studies have enriched his life and career. Alumni and guests enjoyed live entertainment from a swing band during the evening.